Overview
- Hamas agreed in principle to release ten Israeli hostages and return remains of 18 others but insisted on U.S. assurances against any resumption of hostilities and a broader Israeli withdrawal.
- U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff and Israeli officials dismissed Hamas’s response as “completely unacceptable,” affirming that Israel will press on with military operations until all hostages are freed and Hamas is defeated.
- Hamas reported that at least 22 Palestinians were killed and more than 115 wounded in an Israeli strike near a U.S.-run aid distribution center in Rafah, underscoring the humanitarian toll.
- Israel’s government estimates 20 to 23 live hostages remain in Gaza and has vowed to continue its campaign despite international criticism of mounting civilian casualties.
- Washington has simultaneously put forward a detailed proposal to Iran on its nuclear program, highlighting U.S. efforts to link Gaza truce talks with broader regional diplomacy.